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NETGEAR Nighthawk CAX30 vs TP-Link Archer AX55

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Product A: NETGEAR

Nighthawk CAX30

48 of 90 known

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B

Product B: TP-Link

Archer AX55

60 of 90 known

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Only differences

ANETGEAR Nighthawk CAX30

BTP-Link Archer AX55

General

1 of 9 differ

Series

Nighthawk2Maker spec sheet (PDF)downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_DS.pdfRead 15 October 2026Titled Nighthawk AX6/6-Stream WiFi 6 Cable Modem Router, data sheet CAX30.

Archer1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-ax55Read 14 October 2026

Model numbersiMaker identifiers for this exact model and its listed variants. Excludes sibling models and other generations.

CAX30, CAX30S1Maker product pagenetgear.com/home/wifi/modem-routers/cax30sRead 15 October 2026The page title and mpn are CAX30S. The CAX30 is the same Wi-Fi 6 cable modem router with the same datasheet figures. The CAX30S bundle has a 90-day Armor trial and the CAX30 a 30-day trial.

Archer AX551Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-ax55Read 14 October 2026The US page is titled Archer AX55 and its support page lists hardware versions V1 and V4, with the datasheet and user guide for V4.6. TP-Link UK and Japan also list V1. The page's specs do not differ by version. TP-Link sells a separate Archer AX55 Pro with a 2.5 Gbps port, which is not covered here. Other regions list V2 with a Broadcom chip.

GTIN / EAN

6064491564161Maker product pagenetgear.com/home/wifi/modem-routers/cax30sRead 15 October 2026JSON-LD on the page: sku CAX30S-100NAS, gtin and upc 606449156416. No GTIN is stored for the CAX30 since no maker page prints one.

Not available

AnnouncediThe maker's first announcement of this model. This is separate from first retail availability.

Not available

Not available

Status

Available1Maker product pagenetgear.com/home/wifi/modem-routers/cax30sRead 15 October 2026The page offers the CAX30S for sale with an Add To Cart button. It is not marked discontinued.

Available1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-ax55Read 14 October 2026The page and the US downloads are live.

PredecessoriThe model this one directly replaced, in the same line, tier and size, as the maker or a trusted review names it.

Not available

Not available

SuccessoriThe model that directly replaced this one, in the same line, tier and size. A revision such as a Slim or OLED model does not count when a next generation exists.

Not available

Not available

Launch price (US)iThe maker's US launch MSRP for the stated configuration, excluding tax. Current store prices and later discounts do not qualify.

Not available

Not available

Launch price (EU)iThe maker's euro launch price for the stated configuration, including VAT as published. Current store prices and later discounts do not qualify.

Not available

Not available

MarketsiISO country or region codes where this exact model or variant is sold. A source page's language does not establish availability.

US1Maker product pagenetgear.com/home/wifi/modem-routers/cax30sRead 15 October 2026The page and the datasheet name US cable providers: Xfinity, Spectrum and Cox.

US1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-ax55Read 14 October 2026The US page and the US datasheet and user guide (V4.6). The maker prints no launch price.

ColoursiThe maker's own colour names

Black7Retailer pageamazon.com/dp/B08R588RCGRead 15 October 2026Product details: Color Black. The listing is titled NETGEAR Nighthawk Modem Router Combo (CAX30), manufacturer part CAX30-200NAS.

Black6Reviewtomsguide.com/computing/routers/tp-link-archer-ax55-reviewRead 14 October 2026The review describes the router as clothed in basic black.

Form factoriMesh system is a product line sold in packs of mesh units, e.g. eero, Deco and Orbi. A standalone router that can join a mesh as an option is a router. A travel router is a pocket-size router sold for travel.

Router2Maker spec sheet (PDF)downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_DS.pdfRead 15 October 2026

Router1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-ax55Read 14 October 2026Standalone AX3000 Dual Band Gigabit Wi-Fi 6 Router.

SegmentiThe maker's own product category, e.g. ASUS ROG is Gaming and ASUS ExpertWiFi is Business. It is not assigned from price or features.

Home1Maker product pagenetgear.com/home/wifi/modem-routers/cax30sRead 15 October 2026The page sits under Home, WiFi, Modem Routers on netgear.com and is part of the Nighthawk home line.

Home1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-ax55Read 14 October 2026Listed under Home Networking, WiFi Routers.

Wi-Fi

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Wi-FiiThe newest Wi-Fi generation the product supports.

Wi-Fi 62Maker spec sheet (PDF)downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_DS.pdfRead 15 October 2026

Wi-Fi 61Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-ax55Read 14 October 2026

Wi-Fi speed classiThe maker's class name, e.g. BE19000 or AXE11000. It adds up the top link rates of all radios. No single device reaches it. A Wi-Fi 6E class starts with AXE, also when the maker writes AX, so eero's AX5400 is AXE5400. The class is not the model number, so GL.iNet's GL-AXT1800 is AX1800.

AX27001Maker product pagenetgear.com/home/wifi/modem-routers/cax30sRead 15 October 20262Maker spec sheet (PDF)downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_DS.pdfRead 15 October 2026

AX30001Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-ax55Read 14 October 2026WiFi Speeds row: AX3000, 5 GHz 2402 Mbps (802.11ax, HE160), 2.4 GHz 574 Mbps (802.11ax).

Wi-Fi radiosiOne row per radio in one unit. A quad-band unit with two 5 GHz radios has two 5 GHz rows.

ANETGEAR Nighthawk CAX30

Band	Wi-Fi	Streams	Max channel width (MHz)	Dedicated backhaul
2.4 GHz	Wi-Fi 6	3	40	No
5 GHz	Wi-Fi 6	3	80	No

Source2Maker spec sheet (PDF)downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_DS.pdfRead 15 October 2026Technical specs (page 10): 2.4 GHz AX 3x3 (Tx/Rx) 1024-QAM 40 MHz, up to 0.9 Gbps, and 5 GHz AX 3x3 1024-QAM 80 MHz, up to 1.8 Gbps. The maker prints the rates only rounded to 0.1 Gbps, so no link rate is stored. The footnote says up to 2700 Mbps when connected to other 802.11ax 2700 Mbps devices.

BTP-Link Archer AX55

Band	Wi-Fi	Streams	Max channel width (MHz)	Max link rate (Mbps)	Dedicated backhaul
2.4 GHz	Wi-Fi 6	2	40	574	No
5 GHz	Wi-Fi 6	2	160	2,402	No

Source1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-ax55Read 14 October 2026Standards row: Wi-Fi 6, 802.11ax/ac/n/a on 5 GHz and 802.11ax/n/b/g on 2.4 GHz. The capacity row says 4 Streams and the overview says 160 MHz bandwidth on 5 GHz. 2402 Mbps at 160 MHz and 574 Mbps at 40 MHz each fit 2 streams, so the split is 2 per band and the sum equals the 4 streams stated. 40 MHz on 2.4 GHz follows from the 574 Mbps rate. No band is a dedicated backhaul.2Maker spec sheet (PDF)tp-link.com/us/document/93467Read 14 October 2026Datasheet Archer AX55 V4.6: wireless 2402 Mbps (5 GHz) plus 574 Mbps (2.4 GHz). 4 streams. HE160 on the 5 GHz band.6Reviewtomsguide.com/computing/routers/tp-link-archer-ax55-reviewRead 14 October 2026The review says the router handles four independent data streams and gives 574 Mbps on 2.4 GHz and 2,402 on 5 GHz. It prints the 5 GHz unit as Gbps, a typo for Mbps.

Radio bandsiRadios that work at the same time in one unit. Tri-band is 3 and quad-band is 4, also when two radios use the same frequency band.

2=CalculatedFrom Wi-Fi radios

2=CalculatedFrom Wi-Fi radios

6 GHz band

No=CalculatedFrom Wi-Fi radios

No=CalculatedFrom Wi-Fi radios

Combined Wi-Fi link rateiSum of the top link rates of all radios in one unit. It is close to the number in the speed class. No single device reaches it.

Not available

2,976Mbps=CalculatedFrom Wi-Fi radios

Wi-Fi streamsiSpatial streams of all radios in one unit, e.g. 12 for a tri-band router with 4x4 on each band.

6=CalculatedFrom Wi-Fi radios

4=CalculatedFrom Wi-Fi radios

Max Wi-Fi channel widthiWidest channel of any radio, e.g. 320 on the 6 GHz band.

80MHz=CalculatedFrom Wi-Fi radios

160MHz=CalculatedFrom Wi-Fi radios

Wi-Fi featuresiFeatures the maker names for the product. Band steering puts all bands under one network name and moves devices between them, e.g. Smart Connect. Band steering over only some of the bands, such as 2.4 and 5 GHz on a tri-band router, counts. AFC is Automated Frequency Coordination, which allows standard power on 6 GHz. Support that needs a later firmware counts, and the firmware goes in the source note.

OFDMA, Beamforming, Band steering1Maker product pagenetgear.com/home/wifi/modem-routers/cax30sRead 15 October 2026Technical specs list Uplink and Downlink OFDMA and Smart Connect, which picks the fastest WiFi band under one WiFi name.2Maker spec sheet (PDF)downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_DS.pdfRead 15 October 2026Footnote: needs compatible AX clients with DL-OFDMA and UL-OFDMA support. Smart Connect puts both bands under one WiFi name. MU-MIMO is not named, so it is not stored.

OFDMA, MU-MIMO, Beamforming, Target Wake Time, Band steering1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-ax55Read 14 October 2026OFDMA, Beamforming and Target Wake Time are listed in the overview. Airtime Fairness and DFS are listed but are not options. MU-MIMO and Smart Connect are from the datasheet and user guide.2Maker spec sheet (PDF)tp-link.com/us/document/93467Read 14 October 2026OFDMA across 4 streams, Target Wake Time, Beamforming, Airtime Fairness and Smart Connect, which assigns each device to the best Wi-Fi band, stored as band steering.3Owner's manualtp-link.com/us/document/94978Read 14 October 2026Smart Connect assigns each device to the best band. MU-MIMO works only on 5 GHz and is not available when Smart Connect is on. The notice lists OFDMA, MU-MIMO, 1024-QAM and HT160.6Reviewtomsguide.com/computing/routers/tp-link-archer-ax55-reviewRead 14 October 2026The review names MU-MIMO, beamforming and OFDMA.

External antennasiAntennas outside the case, as the maker counts them.

Not available

41Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-ax55Read 14 October 20264x Fixed High-Performance Antennas.2Maker spec sheet (PDF)tp-link.com/us/document/93467Read 14 October 2026Hardware: antennas 4x high-performance antennas. Four high-gain external antennas in the features list.6Reviewtomsguide.com/computing/routers/tp-link-archer-ax55-reviewRead 14 October 2026Spec table: antennas (removable) 4/No. Four amplified antennas that cannot be replaced but can be rotated and swiveled.9Spec databasenextpit.de/wlan-router/tp-link-archer-ax55Read 14 October 2026Antenna type external, number 4.

Internal antennasiAntennas inside the case, as the maker counts them.

Not available

Not available

Detachable antennasiThe external antennas screw off and can be replaced. Fixed antennas that only fold or turn do not count.

Not available

No1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-ax55Read 14 October 2026The page calls the antennas fixed. Tom's Guide says they cannot be replaced but can be rotated and swiveled.6Reviewtomsguide.com/computing/routers/tp-link-archer-ax55-reviewRead 14 October 2026The four amplified antennas cannot be replaced.

Coverage of one unit (claimed)iThe maker's claimed area that one unit covers. A square feet claim is converted exactly and rounded to a whole m². A claim for a whole pack is stored separately. An area that a trusted review quotes from the maker counts, and the source note names the review.

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Not available

Connected devices per unit (claimed)iThe maker's claimed maximum number of devices one unit serves. A claim for a whole mesh pack is not stored here.

Not available

Not available

Ports and modem

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PortsiData ports on the main unit. The power input is not a port. A combo port takes an RJ45 cable or an SFP+ module and is counted once. WAN or LAN means the maker says the port can be either, including auto-sensing ports.

ANETGEAR Nighthawk CAX30

Port	Count	Role	Max speed (Gbps)	Version
Coax	1	WAN	Not available	Not available
RJ45	4	LAN	1	Not available
USB-A	1	Not available	5	USB 3.0

Source2Maker spec sheet (PDF)downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_DS.pdfRead 15 October 2026Four Gigabit Ethernet LAN ports with dual Gigabit port aggregation, one USB 3.0 port and a cable/coaxial port (connection diagram, page 9). The coax port takes the cable internet connection, so it is the WAN. No link rate is stored for it, since DOCSIS is not an Ethernet rate.

BTP-Link Archer AX55

Port	Count	Role	Max speed (Gbps)	Version
RJ45	1	WAN	1	Not available
RJ45	4	LAN	1	Not available
USB-A	1	Not available	5	USB 3.0

Source1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-ax55Read 14 October 2026Ethernet Ports: 1x Gigabit WAN port and 4x Gigabit LAN ports. USB Support: 1x USB 3.0 port.6Reviewtomsguide.com/computing/routers/tp-link-archer-ax55-reviewRead 14 October 2026One 1 Gbps WAN port, four 1 Gbps LAN ports and a USB 3.0 connector rated at 5 Gbps.

Ethernet portsiRJ45 ports of all roles, WAN and LAN.

4=CalculatedFrom Ports

5=CalculatedFrom Ports

Multi-gig portsiWired network ports of 2.5 Gbps or faster, RJ45 or fiber.

0=CalculatedFrom Ports

0=CalculatedFrom Ports

Fastest WAN portiThe fastest port that can take the internet connection.

Not available

1Gbps=CalculatedFrom Ports

Fastest LAN portiThe fastest port for wired devices. A port that can be WAN or LAN counts here too.

1Gbps=CalculatedFrom Ports

1Gbps=CalculatedFrom Ports

USB ports

1=CalculatedFrom Ports

1=CalculatedFrom Ports

SFP+ portiA slot for a 10 Gbps fiber or DAC module.

No=CalculatedFrom Ports

No=CalculatedFrom Ports

Built-in modemiModems inside the router. A port for an external modem does not count. A fiber slot counts only when the fiber module is in the box.

Cable2Maker spec sheet (PDF)downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_DS.pdfRead 15 October 2026

Not available

Modem standardsiStandards of the built-in modem as published, e.g. DOCSIS 3.1, VDSL2 35b, GPON or 5G NR.

DOCSIS 3.1, DOCSIS 3.0 (32x8)2Maker spec sheet (PDF)downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_DS.pdfRead 15 October 2026Built-in DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem compatible with 32x8 DOCSIS 3.0. Up to 10 Gbps is the DOCSIS 3.1 maximum and depends on the provider.

Not available

Mesh

1 of 7 differ

Mesh technologiesiMesh systems the unit can join, by the maker's name, e.g. AiMesh, EasyMesh or TP-Link OneMesh.

Not available

TP-Link OneMesh, EasyMesh1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-ax55Read 14 October 2026OneMesh Supported. The EasyMesh entry says the router can build an EasyMesh network with EasyMesh-compatible devices.3Owner's manualtp-link.com/us/document/94978Read 14 October 2026Chapter 10: EasyMesh with Seamless Roaming.

Units per packiUnits in the box. The base lists every pack size sold. Each pack variant holds its own. A standalone router is 1.

12Maker spec sheet (PDF)downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_DS.pdfRead 15 October 2026Sold as one modem router. The package contents list a single router.

11Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-ax55Read 14 October 2026Sold as a single router.

Coverage of the pack (claimed)iThe maker's claimed area for a whole pack. Each pack variant holds its own claim. The claims of single units are never added up.

Not available

Not available

Identical unitsiEvery unit in a pack is the same model, so any unit can be the router. Not true for systems with a separate satellite model, such as NETGEAR Orbi.

Not available

Not available

Satellite modeliModel number of the satellite when it differs from the router unit.

Not available

Not available

Satellite portsiData ports on one satellite. Only when the satellite differs from the router unit.

Not available

Not available

Ethernet backhauliMesh units can link to each other over an Ethernet cable.

Not available

Not available

Software

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ManagementiWays to set up and manage the router. A web interface is a full settings page in a browser on the local network. A status page alone does not count.

Mobile app, Web interface3Owner's manualdownloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_UM_EN.pdfRead 15 October 2026Settings are changed at http://www.routerlogin.net with the admin login. Chapter 6 also covers remote access with the Nighthawk app.4Owner's manualdownloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_QSG_EN.pdfRead 15 October 2026Install using the modem router web interface at routerlogin.net, or with the Nighthawk app.

Mobile app, Web interface1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-ax55Read 14 October 2026Management Features: Tether App and Webpage. Cloud service: TP-Link ID. The user guide describes the full web interface at tplinkwifi.net.3Owner's manualtp-link.com/us/document/94978Read 14 October 2026Chapter 2 sets up the router with the Tether app or at http://tplinkwifi.net in a browser. Settings are managed in the web interface.

Online account requirediSetup and management need an online account with the maker, with no local way around it.

No3Owner's manualdownloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_UM_EN.pdfRead 15 October 2026The router is set up and managed with a local admin login at routerlogin.net, so no maker account is needed.4Owner's manualdownloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_QSG_EN.pdfRead 15 October 2026The guide offers the web interface as an install route next to the Nighthawk app.

No3Owner's manualtp-link.com/us/document/94978Read 14 October 2026Quick setup lets the user click Skip instead of registering a TP-Link ID, and the web interface login accepts the router password. A TP-Link ID is only needed for cloud features.

Operating modesiModes the maker lists. Media bridge connects wired devices to another router over Wi-Fi. Extender, range extender and WDS modes count as repeater.

Router3Owner's manualdownloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_UM_EN.pdfRead 15 October 2026The manual configures the unit as a modem router. Bridge and access point modes appear only in troubleshooting tips and are not stored.

Router, Access point1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-ax55Read 14 October 2026Working Modes: Router Mode and Access Point Mode.3Owner's manualtp-link.com/us/document/94978Read 14 October 2026Section 4.4: the router can work as an access point. Set at Advanced > System > Operation Mode.

Network featuresiFeatures the maker lists that work without a paid subscription. An IoT network is a separate network for smart home devices. Dual WAN uses a second internet connection as a backup or to share the load. Only features the maker clearly says are free. Parental controls counts when a free feature pauses or schedules internet access per person or device, such as eero Profiles, even when content filters need a subscription. When the maker's pages contradict each other, leave the feature out.

Guest network, LAN aggregation, Dynamic DNS2Maker spec sheet (PDF)downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_DS.pdfRead 15 October 2026Dual Gigabit Ethernet port aggregation and a guest network. The Nighthawk app also lists guest networks.3Owner's manualdownloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_UM_EN.pdfRead 15 October 2026Chapter 5: guest WiFi network (page 52) and Ethernet port aggregation of ports 1 and 2 (page 59). Chapter 8: Dynamic DNS with NETGEAR, No-IP and Dyn accounts (page 92). Parental controls, QoS, VLAN and IPTV are not named, so they are not stored.

Guest network, IPTV, QoS, Parental controls, Dynamic DNS1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-ax55Read 14 October 2026Guest network on 5 GHz and 2.4 GHz, IGMP proxy and snooping for IPTV, QoS by device, HomeShield parental controls and DDNS (TP-Link, NO-IP, DynDNS) are listed. The datasheet says HomeShield includes a free basic plan. Tag VLAN is part of the IPTV settings, so VLAN is not stored. There is no IoT network entry.

VPN serveriProtocols the router can serve, to reach the home network from outside. A paid VPN service is not a VPN server.

OpenVPN2Maker spec sheet (PDF)downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_DS.pdfRead 15 October 2026VPN support for secure access to the home network away from home. The manual names OpenVPN.3Owner's manualdownloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_UM_EN.pdfRead 15 October 2026Chapter 9: use OpenVPN software to remotely access the router. The router is the gateway. No VPN client mode is described.

OpenVPN, PPTP, L2TP, WireGuard2Maker spec sheet (PDF)tp-link.com/us/document/93467Read 14 October 2026Features: OpenVPN, PPTP, L2TP and WireGuard VPN Server and VPN Client are supported. The US product page lists only OpenVPN and PPTP as servers and OpenVPN, PPTP and L2TP as clients, which predates the WireGuard firmware. The user guide has chapters for all four server types.3Owner's manualtp-link.com/us/document/94978Read 14 October 2026Chapter 13: Use OpenVPN, PPTP VPN, L2TP/IPSec VPN and WireGuard VPN to access your home network.

VPN clientiProtocols the router can use to connect to an outside VPN server.

Not available

OpenVPN, PPTP, L2TP, WireGuard2Maker spec sheet (PDF)tp-link.com/us/document/93467Read 14 October 2026Software row: VPN: OpenVPN/PPTP/L2TP/WireGuard VPN Server and VPN Client.3Owner's manualtp-link.com/us/document/94978Read 14 October 2026Section 13.5: VPN Client with OpenVPN, PPTP, L2TP/IPSec and WireGuard VPN server entries.

USB applicationsiWhat the USB port can be used for. Cellular modem is a USB 4G or 5G modem used as an internet connection or backup.

File server, Media server3Owner's manualdownloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_UM_EN.pdfRead 15 October 2026Chapter 7: ReadySHARE storage with FTP access inside the network. ReadyDLNA media server is on by default (page 79).

File server, Media server, Time Machine1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-ax55Read 14 October 2026USB Support: Apple Time Machine, FTP Server, Media Server and Samba Server.3Owner's manualtp-link.com/us/document/94978Read 14 October 2026Chapter 8: access the USB device locally and remotely, with Time Machine in section 8.3.

Security

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Wi-Fi securityiEnhanced Open encrypts an open network without a password.

WPA2-Personal, WPA3-Personal, WPA2-Enterprise2Maker spec sheet (PDF)downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_DS.pdfRead 15 October 2026Standards-based WiFi security (802.11i, 128-bit AES with PSK) and stronger WiFi password protection with WPA3.3Owner's manualdownloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_UM_EN.pdfRead 15 October 2026Page 51: WPA2-PSK [AES] is the default and WPA/WPA2 Enterprise needs a RADIUS server. WPA3 is claimed on the data sheet, but this April 2021 manual lists only WPA, WPA2 and WPA/WPA2.

WPA2-Personal, WPA3-Personal, WPA2-Enterprise1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-ax55Read 14 October 2026WiFi Encryption: WPA, WPA2, WPA3 and WPA/WPA2-Enterprise (802.1x).2Maker spec sheet (PDF)tp-link.com/us/document/93467Read 14 October 2026Wireless Security: WPA/WPA2-Personal, WPA2/WPA3-Personal, WPA/WPA2-Enterprise.

Security serviceiThe maker's built-in security service by name, e.g. AiProtection Pro, HomeShield, NETGEAR Armor or eero Plus.

NETGEAR Armor1Maker product pagenetgear.com/home/wifi/modem-routers/cax30sRead 15 October 2026NETGEAR Armor, with a trial included in the bundle.2Maker spec sheet (PDF)downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_DS.pdfRead 15 October 2026

HomeShield1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-ax55Read 14 October 2026TP-Link HomeShield.

Security service costiWhat the service costs after any free trial. Basic free means the basic features are free and the full set needs a subscription. When the free and paid tiers share one name, such as HomeShield, it is basic free. NETGEAR Armor has no free tier after its trial, so it is paid. When the paid tier is a separate add-on, such as eero Plus, it is paid.

Paid2Maker spec sheet (PDF)downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_DS.pdfRead 15 October 2026Footnote: NETGEAR Armor requires a paid subscription after the initial 30-day free trial. No free tier is listed. The field note names Armor as basic_free for shared names, but the maker states only a paid subscription, so paid is stored like for the RS300 and Orbi 370.

Basic free, full paid2Maker spec sheet (PDF)tp-link.com/us/document/93467Read 14 October 2026Footnote: HomeShield includes the Free Basic Plan. Fees apply for the Pro Plan. Tom's Guide gives 55 USD a year for HomeShield Security+. The free and paid tiers share the name HomeShield.6Reviewtomsguide.com/computing/routers/tp-link-archer-ax55-reviewRead 14 October 2026The basic HomeShield protection is free and the Security+ subscription costs 55 USD a year.

Automatic firmware updatesiThe router can install firmware updates by itself.

Not available

Yes1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-ax55Read 14 October 2026Cloud Service: Auto Firmware Upgrade and OTA Firmware Upgrade.2Maker spec sheet (PDF)tp-link.com/us/document/93467Read 14 October 2026Cloud Service: Auto Firmware Upgrade.

Security updates untiliPublished end date of security updates for this model. It is not calculated from a number of years. A published minimum date, such as "at least through" or "or later", counts as the stated date. The source note says it is a minimum and names the region.

Not available

31 December 202910Maker spec sheet (PDF)static.tp-link.com/upload/manual/2026/202606/20260609/Statements%20of%20PSTI%20Compliance_TP-Link.pdfRead 14 October 2026UK PSTI statement of TP-Link Systems, version of June 2026, lists Archer AX55 V1 with a defined support period of 31/12/2029 or later. Stored as a published minimum for the UK. V4 is not listed. The Singapore support FAQ (Duration of Security Support) lists Archer AX55 until 6 April 2028. The US site has no statement.

Smart home

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Thread border router

Not available

Not available

Matter controlleriCan add and control Matter devices. Being a Matter device alone does not count.

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Zigbee hubiA built-in Zigbee radio that controls Zigbee smart home devices.

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BluetoothiVersion of the Bluetooth radio in the router, often used for setup.

Not available

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Smart home platformsiSmart home and voice platforms the router works with, e.g. Amazon Alexa or Google Home.

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Amazon Alexa1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-ax55Read 14 October 2026Compatible with Alexa. The overview says to control the router via voice commands with Amazon Alexa.

Hardware

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System on chipiMain chip or platform as published, e.g. Broadcom BCM4916 or Qualcomm Networking Pro 620. A chip maker name alone, such as Broadcom, is not stored.

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Qualcomm IPQ50186Reviewtomsguide.com/computing/routers/tp-link-archer-ax55-reviewRead 14 October 2026Spec table: Wi-Fi chip Qualcomm IPQ5018. The text says it has Qualcomm's IPQ5018 Wi-Fi chipset. 24wireless, citing FCC photos of the Japanese V1 model, names a Qualcomm IPQ5018 SoC. The maker's page only says Qualcomm chipset. A forum quote of WikiDevi says V4 uses a different Qualcomm 5 GHz radio chip, and no source states the V4 SoC.7Press article24wireless.info/tp-link-archer-ax55-in-japanRead 14 October 2026TP-Link Japan announced the router on 2021-11-25 for sale on 2021-12-16. The article names a Qualcomm IPQ5018 SoC (printed IPQ0518 in the text) and a Qualcomm QCN6102 5 GHz radio chip.

CPU cores

21Maker product pagenetgear.com/home/wifi/modem-routers/cax30sRead 15 October 2026Technical specs: dual-core 1.5GHz processor.2Maker spec sheet (PDF)downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_DS.pdfRead 15 October 2026

21Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-ax55Read 14 October 2026Processor: Dual-Core CPU. The overview names an advanced Qualcomm chipset.6Reviewtomsguide.com/computing/routers/tp-link-archer-ax55-reviewRead 14 October 2026Spec table: 1GHz dual-core.

CPU clockiHighest published processor clock.

1.5GHz1Maker product pagenetgear.com/home/wifi/modem-routers/cax30sRead 15 October 20262Maker spec sheet (PDF)downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_DS.pdfRead 15 October 2026

1GHz6Reviewtomsguide.com/computing/routers/tp-link-archer-ax55-reviewRead 14 October 2026Spec table and text: a 1GHz dual-core processor. TP-Link prints no clock. 24wireless says the clock is not disclosed.

RAMiRouter RAM in GB. When any trusted source prints a GB figure, use it, e.g. 1 GB rather than 1024 MB converted. Convert MB with 1000 MB per GB only when MB is the only figure, e.g. 512 MB is 0.512, and keep the original figure in the source note. Same rule as streaming devices.

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512MB1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-ax55Read 14 October 2026Overview: 512 MB RAM.6Reviewtomsguide.com/computing/routers/tp-link-archer-ax55-reviewRead 14 October 2026Text: 512MB of RAM. The maker's page also says 512 MB RAM. The review's spec table lists the memory and storage columns the other way round (128MB/512MB), which contradicts its own text and the maker.7Press article24wireless.info/tp-link-archer-ax55-in-japanRead 14 October 2026Comparison table: 512 MB RAM.

Flash storageiBuilt-in flash memory for the firmware in GB. Convert MB with 1000 MB per GB, as for RAM. A memory card or USB drive does not count.

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128MB6Reviewtomsguide.com/computing/routers/tp-link-archer-ax55-reviewRead 14 October 2026Text: 128MB of flash storage for the firmware and settings. 24wireless cites an FCC teardown with an ESMT F50D1G41LB 1 Gbit flash, which is 128 MB. Stored as 0.128 GB.7Press article24wireless.info/tp-link-archer-ax55-in-japanRead 14 October 2026The article cites an FCC-derived teardown: ESMT F50D1G41LB flash, 1 Gbit, which is 128 MB.

Cooling faniA fan inside the unit. Passive cooling does not count.

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Power

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Power supplyiHow the main unit gets power. USB is a USB-C power adapter. PoE is power over an Ethernet cable.

External DC adapter3Owner's manualdownloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_UM_EN.pdfRead 15 October 2026Table 6: power adapter, 120V 60 Hz input and 12V/3.5A DC output.

External DC adapter1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-ax55Read 14 October 2026Package Content: Power Adapter. Power: 12 V DC 2 A.

Rated power inputiDevice input rating as published, in volts and amps.

12 V, 3.5 A3Owner's manualdownloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_UM_EN.pdfRead 15 October 2026The manual's rear panel figure labels the DC inlet 12V 3.5A.

12 V, 2 A1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-ax55Read 14 October 2026Power: 12 V DC 2 A. The user guide names the included power supply as model T120200-2B1.3Owner's manualtp-link.com/us/document/94978Read 14 October 2026FCC statement: I.T.E. Power Supply model T120200-2B1.

Included adapter outputiRated output of the power adapter in the box. This is not power use.

42W3Owner's manualdownloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_UM_EN.pdfRead 15 October 202612 V times 3.5 A is 42 W.

24W3Owner's manualtp-link.com/us/document/94978Read 14 October 2026The adapter is model T120200-2B1 and the page prints 12 V 2 A for the router, so 12 V x 2 A is 24 W. TP-Link prints no separate adapter output rating.

Power use (typical, claimed)iThe maker's typical or average power use of one unit. A published range, such as 14 to 16 W, is left out.

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Power use (max, claimed)iThe maker's maximum power use of one unit. Power given out over PoE is not included. A published range, such as 14 to 16 W, is left out. A figure measured with the power adapter counts.

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Measured

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Wi-Fi throughput (measured)iTom's Guide throughput, one row per test position. Tool, client, direction and walls are in the source note. Other reviewers' results go in source notes only.

ANETGEAR Nighthawk CAX30

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BTP-Link Archer AX55

Distance (m)	Connected to	Throughput (Mbps)
4.572	Main unit	823.7
15.24	Main unit	288.4
22.86	Main unit	89.6
27.432	Main unit	15

Source5Measurementtomsguide.com/computing/routers/tp-link-archer-ax55-reviewRead 14 October 2026Keysight IxChariot with a Samsung Galaxy Book notebook as the test client, router and client in a 100 year old home. Firmware and band are not stated. Direct rows: 15 ft (4.572 m) 823.7 Mbps, 50 ft (15.24 m) 288.4 Mbps, 75 ft (22.86 m) 89.6 Mbps and 90 ft (27.432 m) 15.0 Mbps. The review was published 2024-04-19 on the original hardware.

Fastest Wi-Fi throughput (measured)iHighest measured row with the client connected to the main unit. Compare only results from the same reviewer.

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823.7Mbps=CalculatedFrom Wi-Fi throughput (measured)

Wi-Fi throughput through a wall (measured)iTom's Guide throughput at 25 ft through one wall, with the client on the main unit.

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697.1Mbps5Measurementtomsguide.com/computing/routers/tp-link-archer-ax55-reviewRead 14 October 2026Test system in an adjacent room 25 ft and a wall away: 697.1 Mbps.

Range (measured)iDistance at which the reviewer's client lost its connection to the main unit.

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33.528m5Measurementtomsguide.com/computing/routers/tp-link-archer-ax55-reviewRead 14 October 2026The review gives a range of 110 feet (33.528 m).

Power use under load (measured)iWall power of the main unit during the reviewer's throughput or saturation test.

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8.4W5Measurementtomsguide.com/computing/routers/tp-link-archer-ax55-reviewRead 14 October 2026During the data saturation test the router used only 8.4 W. The estimated annual electricity cost is 11.04 USD.

Energy use per day (measured)iEnergy the router used over 24 hours of the reviewer's test use. This is not the power at one moment.

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Dimensions and weight

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DimensionsiOne unit in its normal position, with antennas folded flat or removed. Height is bottom to top. For a round unit, width and depth are both the diameter. A size the maker prints with antennas up goes in Dimensions with antennas.

Width110Height254Depth211mm(4.3 × 10 × 8.3 in)2Maker spec sheet (PDF)downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_DS.pdfRead 15 October 2026Printed 10.0 x 8.3 x 4.3 in / 254 x 211 x 110 mm without axis names. The manual says the status LEDs and buttons are on the front, and in the product photo they sit on the narrow edge. Amazon prints 8.3 in L x 4.3 in W x 10 in H. So 254 mm is the height, 211 mm the depth and 110 mm the width. The April 2021 manual (Table 6) prints 264 x 215 x 110 mm. The newer data sheet and the netgear.com page agree, so the data sheet is used.

Width261.1Height41Depth134.5mm(10.3 × 1.6 × 5.3 in)1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-ax55Read 14 October 202610.2 x 5.3 x 1.5 in (261.1 x 134.5 x 41.0 mm), width x depth x height. The datasheet prints 261 x 134.5 x 41 mm.2Maker spec sheet (PDF)tp-link.com/us/document/93467Read 14 October 2026Dimensions: 10.2 x 5.3 x 1.5 in (261 x 134.5 x 41 mm).

Dimensions with antennasiOne unit with its external antennas up, as the maker prints it.

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WeightiOne unit without power adapter and cables.

950g(2.1 lb)2Maker spec sheet (PDF)downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_DS.pdfRead 15 October 2026Printed 2.10 lb / 0.95 kg, the same as the netgear.com page and Amazon (2.1 lb). The April 2021 manual (Table 6) prints 2.55 lb (1.16 kg), so the maker's documents disagree and the data sheet is used.

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Wall mountableiThe maker says the unit can be mounted on a wall.

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Yes3Owner's manualtp-link.com/us/document/94978Read 14 October 2026The device also can be mounted on the wall as shown in the following figure, with screw and distance notes on the same page.

Certifications

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Wi-Fi Alliance certification IDiCertificate ID in the Wi-Fi Alliance product finder.

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FCC IDiFCC ID of the main unit.

PY3193004616Spec databasewikidevi.wi-cat.ru/Netgear_PCB_IDRead 15 October 2026FCC Info entry: Netgear CAX30, Nighthawk AX6 AX2700 WiFi Cable Modem Router, PY319300461 (2020-07-06). The FCC database could not be read, so the ID is not checked against the grant.

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Other certifications

FCC Part 15 Class B3Owner's manualdownloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_UM_EN.pdfRead 15 October 2026Table 6, electromagnetic emissions: FCC Part 15 Class B.

FCC, CE, RoHS1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-ax55Read 14 October 2026Certifications: FCC, CE. The datasheet lists FCC and RoHS.2Maker spec sheet (PDF)tp-link.com/us/document/93467Read 14 October 2026Certification: FCC, RoHS.

In the box

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In the boxiItems as the maker lists them for the exact pack.

Nighthawk AX6/6 Stream WiFi 6 Cable Modem Router (CAX30), Ethernet cable, Quick Start Guide, Power adapter2Maker spec sheet (PDF)downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_DS.pdfRead 15 October 2026Package contents: router (CAX30), Ethernet cable, Quick Start Guide and power adapter.4Owner's manualdownloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_QSG_EN.pdfRead 15 October 2026Package contents: cable modem router, Ethernet cable and power adapter.

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Links

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Product page

www.netgear.com/home/wifi/modem-routers/cax30s1Maker product pagenetgear.com/home/wifi/modem-routers/cax30sRead 15 October 2026

www.tp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-ax551Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-ax55Read 14 October 2026

Spec sheet

www.downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_DS.pdf2Maker spec sheet (PDF)downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_DS.pdfRead 15 October 2026

www.tp-link.com/us/document/934672Maker spec sheet (PDF)tp-link.com/us/document/93467Read 14 October 2026

Manual

www.downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_UM_EN.pdf3Owner's manualdownloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_UM_EN.pdfRead 15 October 2026

www.tp-link.com/us/document/949783Owner's manualtp-link.com/us/document/94978Read 14 October 2026User guide Archer AX55 V4.6 for the US.

EPREL registration numberiId in the EU energy label database. Each size or model of a series has its own id, so it is per variant.

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Warranty

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Manufacturer warranty (source market)iThe maker's warranty period for the exact SKU or configuration and market named in the source note. It applies only to that stated market, not every regional variant. Statutory consumer rights are excluded. The base term is stored. An extension that needs registration goes in the source note.

1year2Maker spec sheet (PDF)downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_DS.pdfRead 15 October 2026NETGEAR 1-year limited warranty. It is valid only if the product is bought from a NETGEAR authorized reseller.

2years4Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/support/replacement-warrantyRead 14 October 2026Warranty periods for products purchased on or after 9/1/2023 list 2 years for the Wi-Fi Router family. US site. Tom's Guide also says the AX55 has a two-year warranty.6Reviewtomsguide.com/computing/routers/tp-link-archer-ax55-reviewRead 14 October 2026The review says the AX55 comes with a two-year warranty.

Both are also in the API. Back to all routers.